At Ometz, we want to ensure that every child has the best possible start in life. We know that early and quality intervention with young people will have the most significant and long lasting impact; not only on them but on our community at large. Our team of professionals and volunteers offers support, guidance, learning and counselling so that our children grow up healthy, happy and safe — and prepared to transition into adulthood with confidence.

This past year, we have introduced a number of new, exciting initiatives focusing on providing our youth with more promising futures. These include a specialized youth department, expanded after school homework programs, new services for young adults with autism spectrum disorders and intellectual disabilities, literacy courses and growth of our mentorship program. We are helping our younger population with employability skills and work internships, and our Small Steps camp program continues to gain popularity each year.

We have achieved these goals because of the generous and constant support of our donors and partners who share our mission. Donors like The Morris & Rosalind Goodman Family Foundation, whose recent gift will enable Ometz to help children from financially vulnerable families access learning supports through the Ometz Give Attention to Prevention (GAP) Fund. Loyal patrons like Véronique and Herbert Black, who made it possible for 100% of the proceeds from Ometz’s fundraising gala, A Chance to Shine, go directly to our programs for children and youth at risk. And our new partners at McGill University, who will help Ometz develop the best tools to measure the impact of our services on the lives of all our clients across the agency.

I hope you will be inspired by this issue of Onews and the stories of the dedicated people who make my job so rewarding. In the coming year, the Ometz team will continue to serve the community with focus, passion and creativity and we look forward to sharing this journey with you.

Sincerely,

Gail Small
Chief Executive Officer